Improv 201: Characters + Relationships

This is where your work deepens.

Improv 201 builds on the foundation of Improv 101 and focuses on creating emotionally grounded characters in relationship. You’ll work on being visibly affected by your scene partner and environment, staying present, and identifying the behavioral patterns that give a scene momentum and depth.

Coaching becomes more specific at this level. You’ll be asked to make adjustments in the moment — try it again, refine it, and strengthen it. You’ll also begin practicing simple edits and heightening, learning how to support strong scenes and help great moments land.

By the end of the course, students are able to:

• Create distinct, emotionally grounded characters
• Sustain clear relationships through behavior
• Recognize and build on emerging patterns
• Adjust based on coaching in real time
• Support edits and heightening within a scene

All 8-week classes conclude with an optional showcase performance — a celebratory opportunity to share your work with friends and family.

Optional Showcase Prep Session (Tentative): Reserved for a make-up class if needed. If not, it becomes an optional showcase run-through (practice in a supportive room, review logistics, final notes, and a chance to meet other PHIT students).

Improv 201 is the second step in PHIT’s structured progression (101–401). Each level builds on the last.

Progression & Feedback: PHIT follows a structured level system (101–401). Placement and advancement are based on demonstrated skill development, not just attendance. Instructors provide ongoing feedback and guidance to help students choose the level that best supports their growth — so students can build strong fundamentals before moving on.

Prerequisite: PHIT Improv 101 (or equivalent experience), or permission from the Education Director. Students with prior training from other programs are welcome; the instructor and Education Director may recommend moving into a different level when appropriate and feasible, so students have the support and fundamentals they need to succeed.

Adults 18+

Class size: Most sections run with 10–12 students. Enrollment is capped at 14 to support coaching, reps, and stage time.

Policies: All sales are final. No refunds. No credit for future sessions. No transfers. All courses must be paid in full before the first class. Please consider your schedule carefully before you register.

Day: SUNDAY

Dates: May 31, June 7, 14, 21, 28, July 5, 12, 19

Time: 1 PM - 3 PM

Optional Showcase Prep / Make-Up Date: Juy 26

Showcase: Aug 1

Room: Brown-Martin

Theater Location: Hamilton Family Arts Center 62 N 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19106

About the Instructor:

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Improv 201 Intensive: Characters + Relationships

(4 Weeks, Meets Twice a Week | 8 Class Meetings Total)

This Intensive covers the full Improv 201 curriculum in a condensed format. You’ll build on the foundation of Improv 101 by focusing on emotionally grounded characters, clear relationships, and the behavioral patterns that give scenes momentum and depth.

With two meetings each week, you’ll get frequent reps, consistent coaching, and the momentum that comes from working close together in a short period of time. This format is best for students who prefer a focused, fast-paced schedule and can commit to attending both weekly meetings.

Coaching becomes more specific at this level. You’ll be asked to make adjustments in the moment — try it again, refine it, and strengthen it. You’ll also begin practicing simple edits and heightening, learning how to support strong scenes and help strong moments land.

By the end of the course, students are able to:

All Improv 201 sections conclude with an optional showcase performance — a celebratory opportunity to share your work with friends and family.

Optional Showcase Prep Session (Tentative): Reserved for a make-up class if needed. If not, it becomes an optional showcase run-through (practice in a supportive room, review logistics, final notes, and a chance to meet other PHIT students).

Improv 201 is the second step in PHIT’s structured progression (101–401). Each level builds on the last.

Progression & Feedback: PHIT follows a structured level system (101–401). Placement and advancement are based on demonstrated skill development, not just attendance. Instructors provide ongoing feedback and guidance to help students choose the level that best supports their growth — so students can build strong fundamentals before moving on.

Adults 18+

Prerequisite: PHIT Improv 101 or equivalent experience. Students with prior training elsewhere may contact the Education Director about placement.

Attendance: Because this course moves quickly, consistent attendance is important. Students should plan to attend both weekly meetings whenever possible. Participation in the showcase requires attendance at the final class.

Class size: Most sections run with 10–12 students. Enrollment is capped at 14 to support coaching, reps, and stage time.

Policies: All sales are final. No refunds. No credit for future sessions. No transfers. All courses must be paid in full before the first class. Please consider your schedule carefully before you register.

Day: MONDAY & WEDNESDAY

Dates: June 30, July 2, 7, 9, 14, 16, 21, 23

Time: 7 PM - 9 PM

Optional Showcase Prep / Make-Up Date: July 30

ShowCase: Aug 1

Room: Brown- Martin

Theater Location: Hamilton Family Arts Center 62 N 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19106

About the Instructor: